LAST UPDATE: January 13, 2021
Below are resources and information that you may find helpful at this time, but we also want to hear from you about your specific experiences and suggestions for how government can help you and your employees. We will share your requests and stories with government officials on an ongoing basis. 
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Contact either myself (krobson@timminschamber.on.ca) or
our Policy and Engagement Lead, Cameron Grant (policy@timminschamber.on.ca).  
Following yesterday’s announcement, I wanted to provide the a summary of frequently asked questions regarding the stay-at-home orders.
 
 
Why is the province issuing a stay-at-home order while also permitting curb-side pickup?
 
This question assumes every single person in Ontario has easy access to online shopping or that there is a big-box retailer in their community. This isn’t the case for many Ontarians who live in rural and remote areas.
 
We’ve learned a lot over the past year responding to this pandemic, including the fact that what may be essential to someone in Timmins and how they buy that item may not be essential to someone in downtown Toronto, who can easily buy items online for delivery. The Government of Ontario determining what retailers may be considered essential risks cutting off many Ontarians who don’t live in Toronto or an urban centre from access to necessary goods.
 
What is an essential item?
 
The Government of Ontario cannot determine what is essential for every person in this province, each with their own unique circumstances and regional considerations. Legally defining what is essential risks cutting people off from goods that may legitimately be necessary for their health, well-being and safety.
 
What is an essential trip?
 
The Government of Ontario cannot determine what is essential for every person in this province, each with their own unique circumstances and regional considerations. That said, we have provided broad categories that people should consider before leaving their home: food, health-care services, including medication, exercise or work, where someone’s job cannot be done at home.
 
What is essential work?
 
The stay-at-home order does not define what work or jobs are essential. Rather, it now mandates that anyone who can work from home must now do so. For example, someone working in retail obviously can’t do their job from home and would be permitted to go to work.
 
Why hasn’t the province defined who can or should work from home?
 
The Government of Ontario cannot review tens of millions of job descriptions to determine who can work from home. As such, we are relying on the best judgment and common sense of employers to determine who can do so. If an employee believes they should be working from home, they can contact the Ministry of Labour to file a health and safety complaint.
Why can people still gather in groups of five outdoors?
 
The outdoor gathering limit of five is in recognition of the fact that some people live alone and may require the company or support of others for their mental and physical well-being. Anyone gathering outside is expected to adhere to physical distancing measures and are now strongly urged to wear a mask.
 
Can people leave home to exercise? Can I go to my local playground or basketball court?
 
Yes, exercise is considered an essential reason for leaving your home. What that means will be unique to each individual Ontarian: some may wish to go for a walk around the block, while others may wish to go to a local basketball court with their household to shoot some hoops.
 
We recommend that Ontarians consult their local public health unit or municipality to understand what recreational amenities are open in their community.

Can someone living alone still join up with another household?
 
Yes, they can exclusively join one other household. This is to support their mental health and well-being, as well as to ensure those requiring support continue to have access to essential caregivers.
 
Is there a time limit for how long people can leave their homes?
 
No. That said, we’re asking Ontarians to use their best judgement when leaving their home for essential reasons. They should limit the number of stores they go to and spend as little time outside of their home as possible.
 
Is there a limit on the number of times someone can leave their home in a day?
 
No. That said, we’re asking Ontarians to use their best judgement when leaving their home for essential reasons. They should limit the number of stores they go to and spend as little time outside of their home as possible.
 
Can people travel to their cottages or secondary residences?
 
Right now, we are asking people to stay home and only leave their home for essential purposes, which could include emergency maintenance of a secondary residence. In the spirit of the stay-at-home order, at this time we are not recommending intra-provincial travel.
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NEW INFORMATION: 
For information on essential construction projects, visit: https://canada.constructconnect.com/dcn/news/projects/2021/01/update-ontario-releases-list-of-essential-construction-projects
 
Your Chamber remains here to support you throughout these shutdown measures. For information on funding for your business, visit: https://conta.cc/2XBVcFn
 
  • To reiterate, the government will enact the following additional public health measures:
  • Outdoor organized public gatherings and social gatherings are further restricted to a limit of five people with limited exceptions. This is consistent with the rules during the lockdown during the first wave of COVID-19 in spring 2020 and will allow individuals and families to enjoy time outdoors safely.
  • Individuals are required to wear a mask or face-covering in the indoor areas of businesses or organizations that are open. Wearing a mask or face covering is now recommended outdoors when you can't physically distance more than two metres. 
  • All non-essential retail stores, including hardware stores, alcohol retailers, and those offering curbside pickup or delivery, must open no earlier than 7 a.m. and close no later than 8 p.m. The restricted hours of operation do not apply to stores that primarily sell food, pharmacies, gas stations, convenience stores, and restaurants for takeout or delivery.
  • Non-essential construction is further restricted, including below-grade construction, exempting survey.
 
These measures will come into effect immediately as of 2 p.m. January 12, 2021.
 
Effective Thursday, January 14, 2021, at 12:01 a.m., the government is issuing a stay-at-home order requiring everyone to remain at home with exceptions for essential purposes, such as going to the grocery store or pharmacy, accessing health care services, for exercise or for essential work.
 
This order and other new and existing public health restrictions are aimed at limiting people's mobility and reducing the number of daily contacts with those outside an immediate household. In addition to limiting outings to essential trips, all businesses must ensure that any employee who can work from home, does work from home.
 
New Enforcement Measures
 
Under the declaration of a provincial emergency, the Province will provide authority to all enforcement and provincial offences officers, including the Ontario Provincial Police, local police forces, bylaw officers, and provincial workplace inspectors, to issue tickets to individuals who do not comply with the stay-at-home-order, or those not wearing a mask or face covering indoors as well as retail operators and companies who do not enforce. Those who decide not to abide by orders will be subject to set fines and/or prosecution under both the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19) Act, (ROA) and EMCPA.  
​The Province has imposed a provincewide lockdown starting December 26 at 12:01 a.m.
 
The current COVID-19 Response Framework will be paused when the Provincewide Shutdown comes into effect. As a result of your Northern Chamber network advocacy, the impacts of these time-limited measures will be evaluated throughout the 14 days in Northern Ontario and 28 days in Southern Ontario to determine if it is safe to lift any restrictions or if they need to be extended.
 
The Provincewide Shutdown would put in place time-limited public health and workplace safety measures similar to those in other jurisdictions. It would help stop the trend of high COVID-19 transmission in communities, preserve health system capacity, safeguard vulnerable populations and those who care for them, and save lives. Measures include, but are not limited to:
  • Restricting indoor organized public events and social gatherings, except with members of the same household (the people you live with). Individuals who live alone may consider having exclusive close contact with one other household.
  • Prohibiting in-person shopping in most retail settings - curbside pickup and delivery can continue. Discount and big box retailers selling groceries will be limited to 25 per cent capacity for in-store shopping. Supermarkets, grocery stores and similar stores that primarily sell food, as well as pharmacies, will continue to operate at 50 per cent capacity for in-store shopping.
  • Restricting indoor access to shopping malls - patrons may only go to a designated indoor pickup area (by appointment only), essential retail stores that are permitted to be open (e.g. pharmacy, grocery store), or, subject to physical distancing and face covering requirements, to the food court for takeout purchases. Shopping malls may also establish outdoor designated pickup areas.
Prohibiting indoor and outdoor dining. Restaurants, bars and other food or drink establishments will be permitted to operate by take out, drive-through, and delivery only.

Hotlines for Business Questions
The Business Resilience Service (BRS) allows you to connect with experienced business advisors from across Canada for guidance on which government relief programs will be most appropriate to support your small- to medium-sized business, not-for-profit or charity on how to respond and reshape amid uncertainty.
The program, delivered to your organization free of charge, provides:
  • Guidance on COVID-19 financial support program options and eligibility
  • Direction on accessing the most appropriate support organizations
  • Help to make decisions to support recovery plans
  • Real time insights and feedback to policymakers
To access the BRS call 1-866-989-1080 to connect with a business advisor from the accounting profession. The service is available 7 days/week from 8am – 8pm ET (5am – 5pm PT).
Ontario Small Business Support Grant
The government is announcing the new Ontario Small Business Support Grant, which will provide a minimum of $10,000 and up to $20,000 to eligible small business owners to help navigate this challenging period.
 
Eligible small businesses include those that:
  • Are required to close or significantly restrict services subject to the Provincewide Shutdown effective 12:01 a.m. on December 26, 2020;
  • Have less than 100 employees at the enterprise level; and
  • Have experienced a minimum of 20 per cent revenue decline in April 2020 compared to April 2019.

Ontario's COVID-19 Response Framwork

In consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health and other health experts, the Ontario government has developed the Keeping Ontario Safe and Open Framework. It ensures that public health measures are targeted, incremental and responsive to help limit the spread of COVID-19, while keeping schools and businesses open, maintaining health system capacity and protecting vulnerable people, including those in long-term care.

Updated resources for business

Intuit Inc. - Tips for Small Business Survival During COVID-19

​NEW FUNDING: Northern Ontario Recovery Program for SMEs PAUSED

the Province announced Ontario’s new Northern Ontario Recovery Program (NORP) to support northern businesses impacted by COVID-19. NORP will help companies adapt their operations to meet new public health guidelines to protect employees and customers. The program will be administered through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) and accept applications from October 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020.

Companies can apply to NORP for assistance with COVID-adjustment projects such as, but not limited to:
  • Building renovations and new constructions
  • Customer and employee safety installations
  • Equipment purchases, including personal protective equipment (PPE) 
  • Marketing for new business initiatives
  • Restructuring of business operations
Funding is eligible to cover retroactive expenses going back to March 17, 2020.

​Ontario Continues to Support Restaurants During COVID-19 Pandemic

The Ontario government has announced Ontario's Main Street Recovery Plan and intends to introduce the Main Street Recovery Act, 2020, proposed legislation that would support small businesses. If passed, the act will remove hurdles faced by small businesses and allow them to pursue new opportunities — while maintaining or enhancing protections for public health, safety and the environment.
The plan includes:
  • A one-time grant of up to $1,000 for eligible main street small businesses — in retail, food and accommodations, and other service sectors — with two to nine employees to help offset the unexpected costs of personal protective equipment (PPE);
  • Ontario's Small Business COVID-19 Recovery Network, which links 47 Small Business Enterprise Centres across the province as places where small businesses can access tailored advice and information on local, provincial and federal programs;
  • Digital Main Street Squads to help small businesses grow online;
  • Mental health supports for families, frontline workers, young people, children, and Indigenous communities;
  • Ontario's Small Business Recovery Webpage to provide single window access to small business supports.
The plan's regulatory and legislative changes, if passed, will:
  • Commit to exploring options to permanently allow licensed restaurants and bars to include alcohol with food as part of a takeout or delivery order before the existing regulation expires;
  • Permanently allow 24/7 deliveries to businesses that include retail stores, restaurants, and distribution facilities;
  • Support the distribution of local food and food products by increasing the range of products sold at the Ontario Food Terminal;
  • Enable Community Net Metering demonstration projects to help support local communities to develop innovative community projects like net-zero or community micro-grids;
  • Modernize the Assistive Devices Program;
  • Support Ontario's Taxi and Limousine Industry by increasing fines for illegal operators.
For more information, visit: https://covid-19.ontario.ca/small-business-recovery-resources

City of Timmins Interest Deferral Program and City Leases

In April of 2020, Timmins Council temporarily suspended interest, penalties and charges on property taxes and water & sewer fees that was in effect until September as COVID-19 financial relief measure. With the revocation of that program, all overdue accounts, as of October 30th, will be charged interest, penalties and charges on November 1st, 2020.

In an effort to continue to provide relief to those individuals and organizations that have been financially impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic, Council has now approved an Interest Free Payment Deferral Program.
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This application based program will be for those Property Tax and Water & Sewer rate payers who meet the following criteria:
  • Must be in good standing with the tax and water account as of March 1, 2020;
  • Only the balance on account will be allowed to be amortized;
  • The amortization period will extend to December 31, 2022 however the rate payer can choose a reduced period;
  • Applications are required to be filled out;
  • Applications are due by December 1, 2020.
Application forms will be available on September 14 on our City website at: https://www.timmins.ca/our_services/finance/c_o_v_i_d-19_relief_programs
At the September 8 meeting, City Council members approved a payment deferral program for City of Timmins lessees who have experienced financial hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Organizations that are currently entered into a lease agreement with the City of Timmins may apply and qualify for the program, and must meet the following criteria:
  • Must show a 50% drop in revenue during the months of April to July 2020 versus April to July 2019;
  • Must be in good standing with the lease payments as of March 1, 2020;
  • Must provide official financial statements that are produced by an accounting software or are tracked in a manual ledger;
  • Must pay no more than $15,000 in monthly gross rent per location;
  • Must fully complete an application; and
  • Must submit the applications by December 1, 2020.
There are two categories of this deferral program that an applicant may qualify for:
Category 1
If the lessee’s revenue dropped between 50-74% for the months of April to July compared to the same prior year period, the program details would be as follows:
  • The City of Timmins would waive 25% of the rent for the months of April to July of 2020;
  • The lessee would pay 25% of the rent for the months of April to July by the end of 2020; and
  • The remaining 50% of rent from April to June would be amortized over the remaining term of the lease.
Corporation of the City of Timmins
220 Algonquin Boulevard East, Timmins, ON P4N 1B3
Phone: (705) 264-1331
Category 2
If the lessee’s revenue dropped between 75-100% for the months of April to July compared to the same prior year period, the program details would be as follows:
  • City of Timmins would waive the full rent for the months of April to July of 2020.
Application forms will be available on September 14 on our City website at: https://www.timmins.ca/our_services/finance/c_o_v_i_d-19_relief_programs
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​In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ontario government made a regulation that changed certain Employment Standards Act (ESA) rules during the “COVID-19 period.” This regulation has been amended, extending the COVID-19 period to January 2, 2021.

During the COVID-19 period (March 1, 2020 to January 2, 2021):
  • A non-unionized employee whose employer has temporarily reduced or eliminated their hours of work for reasons related to COVID-19 is deemed to be on a job-protected Infectious Disease Emergency Leave,
  • A non-unionized employee is not considered to be laid off under the ESA if their employer temporarily reduces or eliminates their hours of work or wages for reasons related to COVID-19, and
  • A non-unionized employee is not considered to be constructively dismissed under the ESA if their employer temporarily reduces or eliminates their hours of work or wages for reasons related to COVID-19.
Beginning on January 3, 2021:
  • Employees will no longer be deemed to be on Infectious Disease Emergency Leave. 
  • The ESA’s regular rules around constructive dismissal resume. This means a significant reduction or elimination of an employee’s hours of work or wages may constitute a constructive dismissal, even if it was done for reasons related to COVID-19.
  • The ESA’s regular rules around temporary layoff resume. For practical purposes, an employee’s temporary layoff clock resets on January 3, 2021.
If you need help understanding your employment standards rights and responsibilities, you can:
  • Visit Your guide to the Employment Standards Act at Ontario.ca/ESAguide.
  • Call the Employment Standards Information Centre at 1-800-531-5551 or TTY (for hearing impaired) at 1-866-567-8893. Information is available in many languages.
  • Get advice from a lawyer.
To learn more about COVID-19, employers’ responsibilities and job protections available to employees, visit Ontario.ca/COVID.

​Small Business COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program

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​CEAP-SB, a Government of Ontario program with rules designed by the OEB, is designed to help small businesses and registered charities that are struggling to pay their energy bills as a result of the COVID-19 emergency. CEAP-SB provides a one time, on-bill credit to eligible small business and registered charity customers to help them catch up on their energy bills and resume regular payments.
 
As of August 31, 2020, small businesses and registered charities can apply for funding through their electricity and natural gas utilities or unit sub-meter providers (USMPs).  Please note that CEAP-SB funding is limited, and utilities and USMPs will process applications in the order in which they are received. Submitting an application for CEAP-SB does not guarantee funding. Full program details including eligibility criteria, on-bill credit amounts and application processes are available at oeb.ca/CEAP.
 
Attached to this email are some materials on CEAP-SB for your reference and use: A few graphics as well as a short article for a newsletter, e-alert or social media post. If you would like to tag the Ontario Energy Board on social media, our Twitter handle is @OntEnergyBoard. 
 
Any assistance the TCC can provide in getting information about CEAP-SB to small business customers so that they are aware of this program and how to access it is greatly appreciated.
 
Also, any feedback on how you will be sharing the materials we are providing and whether you find them helpful would be welcome. The feedback helps us to keep our resources relevant and responsive to people’s needs.
The City of Timmins and the Chamber’s Joint Business Continuity and Recovery Advisory Task force: 
The task force aims to support business continuity and recovery in the City of Timmins through a coordinated and responsive manner. Member organizations include: City of Timmins, The Chamber, MPP Gilles Bisson and MP Charlie Angus, Timmins Economic Development Corporation (TEDC), Downtown Timmins Business Improvement Association (BIA), The Venture Centre, Fednor, The Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines, and the Cochrane District Social Services Administration Board (CDSSAB).
MAY RESULTS:
​​The results from the second Timmins Business Impact Survey have been compiled as part of the continued efforts of the Business Continuity and Recovery Task Force. 
APRIL RESULTS:
​​The results from the first Timmins Business Impact Survey have been compiled as part of the continued efforts of the Business Continuity and Recovery Task Force. 
For the info graphic, CLICK HERE. 
To view the survey results, CLICK HERE.
For the info graphic, CLICK HERE. 
To view the survey results, CLICK HERE.
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​Work with Provincial Government on a reopening plan
For businesses and sectors that are either not able to reopen in Stage 3, or who are experiencing significant challenges opening with restrictions in Stage 3, the government is committed to working with you.

Restrictions introduced on the restaurant sector

Effective 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, September 26:
  • Apply additional measures and restrictions to restaurants, bars and other food and drink establishments (including nightclubs) by prohibiting the sale of alcohol after 11 p.m., and prohibiting the consumption of alcohol on the premises after 12:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. (including employees), and requiring establishments to close by 12:00 a.m. and remain closed until 5:00 a.m. except for takeout or delivery; and
  • Require businesses or organizations to comply with any advice, recommendations, and instructions issued by the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health on screening for COVID-19, including screening individuals who wish to enter their premises.
In addition, the province will work with the municipal sector and other partners to encourage increased enforcement of existing businesses, facilities, workplaces, etc. to comply with all public health and workplace safety measures and restrictions in the Stage 3 regulation. 

LIST OF ESSENTIAL WORKPLACES (Link)
If you have questions about what will be open or impacts to your business or employment, call the Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659. ​

Ontario is planning for the next phase of responding to the coronavirus (COVID‑19) outbreak – reopening our province.
Stage 1: For businesses that were ordered to close or restrict operations, opening select workplaces that can immediately modify operations to meet public health guidance. Opening some outdoor spaces like parks and allowing for a greater number of individuals to attend some events. Hospitals would also begin to offer some non-urgent and scheduled surgeries, and other health care services.

Effective Friday, June 12, 2020 at 12:01 a.m.
Stage 2: Opening more workplaces, based on risk assessments, which may include some service industries and additional office and retail workplaces. Some larger public gatherings would be allowed, and more outdoor spaces would open.
Businesses and services permitted to reopen with proper health and safety measures in place in regions entering Stage 2 include:
  • ​Outdoor dine-in services at restaurants, bars and other establishments, including patios, curbside, parking lots and adjacent properties;
  • Select personal and personal care services with the proper health and safety measures in place, including tattoo parlours, barber shops, hair salons and beauty salons;
  • Shopping malls under existing restrictions, including food services reopening for take-out and outdoor dining only;
  • Tour and guide services, such as bike and walking, bus and boat tours, as well as tasting and tours for wineries, breweries and distilleries;
  • Water recreational facilities such as outdoor splash pads and wading pools, and all swimming pools;
  • Beach access and additional camping at Ontario Parks;
  • Camping at private campgrounds;
  • Outdoor-only recreational facilities and training for outdoor team sports, with limits to enable physical distancing;
  • Drive-in and drive-through venues for theatres, concerts, animal attractions and cultural appreciation, such as art installations;
  • Film and television production activities, with limits to enable physical distancing; and
  • Weddings and funerals, with limits on social gatherings to 10 people.

​Effective Friday, July 13, 2020 at 12:01 a.m.
​Stage 3:The Ontario government announced nearly all businesses and public spaces will reopen in Stage 3 of the province's reopening framework with public health and workplace safety measures and restrictions in place beginning on Friday, July 17, 2020.

The Chamber is pleased to share that the following businesses can now open, while following the guidelines, when they feel safe to do so:
  • Casinos and Charitable Gaming Establishments;
  • Convention Centres, Meeting and Event Spaces;
  • Facilities for Sports and Recreational Fitness Activities;
  • Live Shows, Performing Arts and Movie Theatres;
  • Playgrounds and Play Structures;
  • Recreational Courses and Instruction;
  • Recreational Attractions and Businesses; and
  • Restaurants providing indoor dining.
Establishments classified under the following are NOT yet permitted to reopen:
  • Buffet-style food services;
  • Dancing at restaurants and bars, other than by performers hired by the establishment following specific requirements;
  • Overnight stays at camps for children; and
  • Prolonged or deliberate contact while playing sports.
As part of the Stage 3 reopening, Ontario will be increasing gathering limits for those regions entering the next stage to the following:
  • Indoor gathering limits will increase to a maximum of 50 people;
  • Outdoor gathering limits will increase to a maximum of 100 people;
  • Gathering limits are subject to physical distancing requirements.
Public gathering limits apply to indoor and outdoor events, such as community events or gatherings, concerts, live shows, festivals, conferences, sports and recreational fitness activities, fundraisers, fairs, festivals or open houses. A two metre distance must still be maintained at such events. Social circles in all stages at this point will also be kept to a maximum of 10 people province-wide, regardless of stage.

For more information on the restrictions that will remain in place during Stage 3, as well as the public health guidance necessary to keep the people of Ontario safe, visit  Ontario.ca/reopen .
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To read the report on A Framework for Reopening our Province, CLICK HERE.

Critical Business Support Updates from Government

Digital Main Street to help businesses reopen, recover and grow 
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The Ontario government, in partnership with the federal government, is helping small businesses reach more customers through the Digital Main Street platform. It is a $57-million program which will help up to 22,900 Ontario businesses create and enhance their online presence and generate jobs for more than 1,400 students. Through the $57-million contribution to the Digital Main Street platform, businesses will be able to take advantage of three new programs to support their digital transformation:
  • shopHERE powered by Google will leverage Ontario's strengths by hiring highly skilled and trained students to build and support the launch of online stores for businesses that previously did not have the capacity to do so themselves. The core goal will be to help small businesses compete and grow, in a world that is increasingly online, and help them recover as quickly as possible following COVID-19.
  • Digital Main Street Grant will help main street small businesses be digitally more effective. Through a $2,500 grant administered by the Ontario BIA Association, small businesses will be able to adopt new technologies and embrace digital marketing. Municipalities, Chambers of Commerce, and Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) can apply for a Digital Service Squad grant, which will allow them to establish teams to provide personalized, one-on-one support.
  • Future-Proofing Main Street will provide specialized and in-depth digital transformation services and support that helps existing main-street firms adapt to changes in their sector and thrive in the new economy. By leveraging teams of digital marketing professionals and talented students, these firms will be able to create new online business models, develop and implement digital and e-commerce marketing strategies, and maximize digital tools, platforms and content.
In addition, the Recovery Activation Program, operated through the Toronto Region Board of Trade, will help businesses grow and digitize their operations with custom consulting sessions, online resource sharing, learning webcasts and business planning. As a result of the investment announced today, the program will be offered province-wide and at no cost to businesses.  

For more information on the Digital Main Street, CLICK HERE.
For more information on the Recovery Activation Program, CLICK HERE.
Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS)
Extended until end of June 2021
​
Use the wage subsidy calculator here. | Are you eligible for the wage subsidy? Click here to find out.
​
Employers can apply for the CEWS through My Business Account or through the CRA’s online application portal, and their representatives can apply through Represent a Client.

Eligibility: 
  • ​Any company can qualify no matter what size, with the exception of public sector entities.
  • For non-profit organizations and registered charities similarly affected by a loss of revenue, the government will continue to work with the sector to ensure the definition of revenue is appropriate to their circumstances. Charities and non-profits can also choose whether to include revenues from governments, such as grants, in their calculations when they apply.
  • Companies must demonstrate their revenues have decreased by 15% in March 2020, and can compare their revenues to previous months rather than the previous year, to access the subsidy.
  • An eligible employer’s entitlement to this wage subsidy will be based entirely on the salary or wages actually paid to employees.

How to Apply
​Eligible employers would be able to apply for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy through the Canada Revenue Agency’s My Business Account portal as well as a web-based application.
General enquiries:
Phone: 1-800-959-5525
Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance Application process is now open. To apply, click HERE.

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation will administer and deliver the CECRA, a collaboration between the federal government and provincial and territorial governments, which are responsible for property owner-tenant relationships.
It is expected that CECRA will be operational by mid-May, with commercial property owners lowering the rents of their small business tenants payable for the months of April and May, retroactively, and for June. This program will lower rent by 75 per cent for small businesses that have been affected by COVID-19.
​
The government is also providing further details on the program:
  • The program will provide forgivable loans to qualifying commercial property owners to cover 50 per cent of three monthly rent payments that are payable by eligible small business tenants who are experiencing financial hardship during April, May, and June. 
  • The loans will be forgiven if the mortgaged property owner agrees to reduce the eligible small business tenants’ rent by at least 75 per cent for the three corresponding months under a rent forgiveness agreement, which will include a term not to evict the tenant while the agreement is in place. The small business tenant would cover the remainder, up to 25 per cent of the rent.
  • Impacted small business tenants are businesses paying less than $50,000 per month in rent and who have temporarily ceased operations or have experienced at least a 70 per cent drop in pre-COVID-19 revenues. This support will also be available to non-profit and charitable organizations.
Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA)

CEBA requirements and deadlines have changed:
  • As of October 26, 2020, eligible Canadian businesses that currently operating through a personal bank account will be able to apply for CEBA.
  • All applicants now have until December 31, 2020, to apply for CEBA.
  • *COMING SOON* CEBA support is being expanded from $40K to $60K. This expansion will be available to all eligible previous and new CEBA applicants. Stay tuned to the CEBA website for more details, including launch details in the coming weeks.
Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund ​Support for Businesses in Northern Ontario

NADF is currently administering two (2) COVID-19 emergency loan funds to support Aboriginal businesses in Northern Ontario who have been impacted by COVID-19.  

These funds are not intended to replace or duplicate government or other bank/lender emergency program that are available to businesses in Canada.
The Government of Canada has also provided support of up to $250,000 to FedNor to invest directly in small businesses and organizations through its Regional Economic Growth Through Innovation Program. 

​Details of the Regional Economy Stream funding program is available on FedNor's website.

New Programs Focus on Hospitality Workers and Apprentices

The government is providing an Ontario Tools Grant of $2.5 million in 2020-21 and $7.5 million in 2021-22 and ongoing. This will help new eligible apprentices purchase the equipment they need to start their careers. The funding amounts will be distributed as follows:
  • $1,000 for those in motive power sector trades;
  • $600 for those in construction and industrial sector trades;
  • $400 for those in service sector trades.
To be eligible for the new grant, apprentices must have:
  • completed level 1 training on or after April 1, 2020;
  • an active registered training agreement; and
  • been registered as an apprentice for at least 12 months.
For more information or to apply, click HERE.

POST Program: People Outside Safely Together

The POST Promise is a training & education platform which results in a voluntary declaration from a business to its customers and employees. It’s a simple and easy way to show that a business is taking steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

​For more information, CLICK HERE.

​Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) - Regional economy stream in Northern Ontario

To meet the evolving needs of Northern Ontario businesses and organizations, we have adjusted the eligibility criteria for the COVID-19 Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF). Eligible businesses and not-for-profit organizations can now qualify even if they have applied for, or have even received, other federal COVID-19 funding.
 
These changes apply to the Regional economy stream of the RRRF affecting businesses (such as incorporated companies, corporations or co-operatives), Indigenous organizations (like Indigenous/First Nation/Métis Settlement-owned businesses), as well as a variety of not-for-profit organizations and associations.
 
Details for businesses:
  • Covers a wide range of costs, including rent, utilities, insurance and much more
  • Funding up to $250,000
  • Program offers 0% interest
  • Payment moratorium is available up to December 31, 2022
  • Repayments to be made in installments over a maximum term of five years from the date the first payment was issued
  • Recipients of contributions up to $40,000 who repay 75 percent of their contribution before December 31, 2022, will be granted 25 percent funding forgiveness up to a maximum of $10,000
Important note: Eligible not-for-profit recipients qualify for non-repayable funding. For more information, CLICK HERE.

Noteworthy Business Resources and Information

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Canada Post offers free Emergency Mail Forwarding to Businesses
Emergency Mail Forwarding for business customers who need it is offered free of charge online as of April 3. Business customers who already purchased the service as of March 13 will be able to receive a refund by calling customer service. 
The Canadian chamber network has partnered with Statistics Canada to launch a survey of the national business community to collect time-sensitive data about what businesses are going through and how they’re planning for the eventual recovery. Take the survey here.

Today, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Government of Canada, launched the Canadian Business Resilience Network (CBRN). The CBRN is a coordinated, business-led, inclusive campaign that will focus on providing businesses the tools they need to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on them, our economy and communities across the country. Its goal is also to help businesses emerge from this crisis and drive Canada’s economic recovery.
The CBRN will:
  • Give tools and supports to businesses in their continuity efforts – from development to implementation.
  • Provide a consistent and reliable flow of accurate and up-to-date information.
  • Work closely with federal government and within the business community to ensure the right supports are in place, and to be a conduit for information from the government to the private sector (and vice versa).
  • Aim to instill confidence in Canadian business and the economy.
​For more information, CLICK HERE.

Governments Invest $2.5 Million to Grow Agri-food
​e-Business During COVID-19

The governments of Canada and Ontario are investing up to $2.5 million to help the agri-food sector expand online, providing more opportunities for producers to grow their business and offer more food choices for families who are shopping from home during the COVID-19 outbreak. The funding is being provided through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (the Partnership). The Agri-Food Open for E-Business initiative will help food producers, farmers markets, retailers, garden centres, greenhouses, nurseries, and agricultural associations develop online business, providing consumers with greater access to a wide variety of food and agriculture products. This targeted application intake features two funding streams:
  1. Bring Your Business Online. Eligible organizations and businesses can apply for a grant of up to $5,000 to establish an online e-business and marketing presence. Funding under this stream will be quick and responsive for those needing immediate solutions.
  2. Develop Online Business Opportunities. Eligible organizations, businesses and collaborations can apply for cost-share funding of up to $75,000 to implement high-impact projects.
The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) will immediately accept applications and expedite the approval process to help businesses and organizations develop, expand and enhance their current online presence. Since June 2018, both the federal and provincial governments have committed support to approximately 2,500 projects through the Partnership to help eligible Ontario farmers, processors, businesses and sector organizations innovate and grow.
Employment Support Measures for Business
The Emergency Care Benefit provides up to $900 biweekly, up to 15 weeks to workers, including the self-employed, who have to stay home and don't qualify for paid sick leave or employment insurance.
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HOW TO APPLY:
This will become available in April, and applications will be via the CRA.
Have an EI claim in process but have since been diagnosed with COVID 19?
Please call 1-833-381-2725
Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP)
The BCAP will allow the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and Export Development Canada (EDC) to provide more than $10 billion of additional support, largest targeted to small- and medium-sized businesses (as defined by 499 employees or less).
  • Working capital loans of up to $2 million with flexible terms and payment postponements for up to 6 months for qualifying businesses
  • Postponement of payments for up to six months, free of charge, for existing BDC clients with total BDC loan commitment of $1 million or less 
  • Reduced rates on new eligible loans.
HOW TO APPLY:
BDC Website
EDC Website
Mortgage Payment Deferrals
The six largest banking institutions in Canada have made a commitment to work with personal and business banking customers on a case-by-case basis to provide flexible solutions to help them manage through various challenges.
This support will include up to a six-month payment deferral for mortgages, and the opportunity for relief on other credit products.
HOW TO APPLY: 
This will be done on a first come, first serve basis and requires a direct call to your bank.
Here are the helplines for each institution:
BMO: 1- 877-788-1923
CIBC: 1-877-454-9030
RBC: 1-800-769-2511
Scotiabank: 1-833-315-4357
TD: 1-888-730-0075
National Bank of Canada: 1‑844‑394‑4494 
​Ontario’s Action Plan: Responding to COVID‑19
The action plan will provide $3.3 billion in additional health care resources, $3.7 billion to support people and jobs, and measures that will make available up to $10 billion in support for people and businesses through tax and other deferrals to improve their cash flows, helping protect jobs and household budgets. 
Business supports include:
  • Allowing employers to defer payments to the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) for up to six months
  • Increasing the Employer Health Tax (EHT) exemption to $1 million
  • Providing a five-month interest and penalty-free period for business to make payments for the majority of provincially administered taxes
  • Supporting regions lagging in employment growth with a proposed new Corporate Income Tax Credit, the Regional Opportunities Investment Tax Credit. 
Read more at ontario.ca.
April 1st - $50 million Ontario Together Fund: Currently Active
The Ontario government is launching a new $50 million Ontario Together Fund to help businesses provide innovative solutions or retool their operations in order to manufacture essential medical supplies and equipment, including:
        i. Gowns
        ii. Coveralls
        iii. Masks& face shields
        iv. Testing equipment
        v. Ventilators
  • This new Fund will support the development of proposals submitted by businesses through the Ontario Together web portal.
  • The government will be looking for the most viable, innovative proposals that can quickly provide critical goods and services and the greatest benefit to the people of Ontario.
  • The fund is time-limited and will be available to companies and organizations across the province.

​Cultural, Heritage and Sport Organizations

Canada's Energy Sector
Canadian cultural, heritage and sport organizations are facing significant financial losses due to COVID-19. They have lost potential revenues from closed facilities or cancelled events. Meanwhile, they are facing challenges accessing Canada’s broader support measures such as the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy because of unique seasonal revenues and costs.

The new COVID-19 Emergency Support Fund for Cultural, Heritage and Sport Organizations will provide $500 million to help address the financial needs of affected organizations within these sectors. The fund will be administered by Canadian Heritage via contribution agreements.
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Support will be provided in a manner consistent with other COVID-19 supports such as the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy and the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA).
Canada’s energy sector is facing significant challenges as it is dealing simultaneously with a surge in global crude oil supply and a decline in demand as a result of the broad economic slowdown brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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To support Canadians working in the energy sector through these challenges the government will take new targeted actions totalling more than $2 billion to create and protect jobs and important environmental benefits, as well as make available new tailored credit solutions for small and medium-sized companies in the sector. The targeted actions are expected to retain and create approximately 10,000 well-paying jobs in the sector.
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In the near term, additional broad-based credit solutions will be made available for small and medium-sized firms in other sectors, such as forestry, retail and others, whose financing needs are similarly larger than the current solutions available under the BCAP.
For more information, please contact EDC or BDC.

Updates from the City of Timmins - ​City of Timmins COVID-19 Resource Page (Link)

Reminders  - Coronavirus (COVID-19) June 10 2020
Disinfecting and Sanitizing  - Coronavirus (COVID-19) May 22 2020
Media Release - Street Occupancy Permits​ May 22 2020
Media Release - Construction Ban Lifted May 19 2020
May Long Weekend  - Coronavirus (COVID-19) May 15 2020
30 Ways to De-stress in Less than 10 Minutes - Coronavirus (COVID-19) May 8 2020
Social Distancing Reminders - Coronavirus (COVID-19) May 7 2020
COVID-19 Process  Reminder - Coronavirus (COVID-19) May 6 2020
Announcements Updates - Coronavirus (COVID-19) May 5 2020
Guidance  - Coronavirus (COVID-19) May 1 2020
Toolkit for individual employees, April 29, 2020
Social Distancing Tips - Coronavirus (COVID-19) April 24 2020
Take Care of Yourself and Each Other - Coronavirus (COVID-19) April 20 2020
Supporting Mental Health During the Pandemic with Dr. Bill Howat
Mental Health Services  - Coronavirus (COVID-19) April 16 2020
COVID-19 Process  - Coronavirus (COVID-19) April 8 2020
COVID-19 Simulation Report

Resources for Employers with Temporary Foreign Workers

Additional Business Resources, Webinars, Learning, and Webpages

The following resources provide general information from government and public health authorities on how businesses and their staff can help mitigate the spread of COVID-19: Further Resources for Businesses Industry Specific Resources

Resources for Non-profits

Additional Resources to Small Businesses

The following are resources that are specific to small businesses:​ ​In addition to pandemic preparedness tools, we have also created templates for your use:
Crisis Communications Plan and a Business Continuity & Recovery Plan. ​
Web Pages
​Canadian Chamber of Commerce: COVID-19: Business Resilience
Canadian Payroll Association: Payroll Continuity Best Practice Guidelines
Chambers Plan: COVID-19 Updates and Resources
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Financial 
Economic Development Corporation 
Employment Insurance  (New dedicated COVID-19 number: 1-833-381-2725) 

​Business Development Canada:
Support for Entrepreneurs impacted by coronavirus
Business continuity plan and templates for entrepreneurs
 
Department of Finance Canada: 
Canada outlines measures to support the economy and the financial sector
 
Global Affairs Canada 
Trade Commissioner Service Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Resources for Canadian businesses 
 
Regional Development Agencies
RDAs are helping to address economic challenges brought on by COVID-19

Economic Development Supports
Economic Developers Council of Ontario - Members Facebook Group
Economic Developers Association of Canada - LinkedIn Group
International Economic Developers Association - Webinar Presentation
Dealing with the Coronavirus: What to do immediately, to help save the tourism industry and our downtown: Presentation
Here’s how #CDNtech companies are pitching in during COVID-19 - Article

Health 
Public Health Ontario
Canada Public Health 
Social distancing, handwashing and cleaning / ventilation
Increasing cleaning procedures (Ontario) 
Government of Canada takes action on COVID-19
Novus Health Webinar: Building Resilience to COVID-19 (English)
Novus Health Webinar: Renforce votre résilience face à la COVID-19 (Français)
 
Travel 
Latest Government of Canada Travel Advice 
Destination Canada - COVID-19 Updates
Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Matter - Here is my 10 point immediate action plan for our sectors during Covid-19

Employment and Social Development Canada
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
 
Other organizations 
Restaurants Canada 
Retail Council 
Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters 
The Conference Board of Canada
Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses 
— CFIB is opening their Business Helpline to non-CFIB members. For advice managing #coronavirus in the workplace, business owners can call 1-888-234-2232. 
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